FAA Issues SFAR for COVID-19 Relief

April 29, 2020 – The FAA issued a Special Federal Aviation Regulation (SFAR) titled “Relief for Certain Persons and Operations during the COVID 19 Outbreak.” The relief extends the expiration dates of certain types of certificate and operating privileges for airman and part 141 flight schools. This SFAR is valid from April 30th 2020 to March 31st 2021, however, most of the provisions are effective until June 30, 2020.

May 4, 2020 UPDATE – The FAA included language which clarifies that the intent of the SFAR is to “support essential operations.” Additionally, certain provisions are provided under very limited circumstances, such as extending flight reviews and instrument currency, which are based on the grade of pilot certificate held, the type of operation, and additional requirements for private pilots. Airman should review the FAA’s COVID-19 SFAR for additional limitations and details that may apply to your situation.

The video below summarizes the major provisions of this SFAR so you can determine what type of relief you may be eligible to receive.

Airmen privileges and stakeholders eligible for relief include:

Flight Review Due Dates: Due to the intent of the SFAR, the eligibility for flight review extensions, is extremely limited, and is intended for pilots conducting “essential operations” related to COVID-19.

Instrument/IFR Recent Flight Experience: Due to the intent of the SFAR, the eligibility for Instrument/IFR Recent Flight experience extensions, is extremely limited, and is intended for pilots conducting “essential operations” related to COVID-19.